Enhanced dispensing and dosaging techniques for fluid containers

ABSTRACT

In various embodiments, the invention provides enhanced structures, devices, and techniques that allow fluids and liquid products, such as cosmetics, to dispense in a more even, smoother, and more predictable manner from fluid containers.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

In various embodiments, the present invention generally relates totools, techniques, structures, devices, and processes for effectivelyand efficiently dispensing fluid from fluid containers. In particularembodiments of the invention, improved fluid containers and associatedstructures are provided for dispensing cosmetic products.

BACKGROUND

In the world of high quality consumer products, it is important to haveproduct designs and packages that function effectively for theirintended purposes. With respect to the cosmetics industry, for example,it is especially important to provide fluid containers that can meetconsumer needs by efficiently and cleanly dispensing fluids such ascreams, oils, make-up, and other types of cosmetics.

However, many current package and container designs for fluid containerssuffer from deficiencies in how they deliver an appropriate dosage offluid and how they maintain a clear and open path for fluid to flow. Aninsufficient dosage of fluid does not provide enough product to meet theneeds of the consumer. On the other hand, an excess dosage generatesextra product that cannot be readily used by the consumer. This extraproduct creates a clean-up problem for the consumer who must decide howto dispose of the extra fluid that has been dispensed. Also, such extraproduct can cause undesirable clogging of the dispensing orifice of afluid container. In certain situations, fluid product within a containerdries, cracks, and leaves residue in what may have been promoted ormarketed as a “premium” package that commanded a commensurately“premium” price but which has now caused consumer dissatisfaction.

In view of the issues afflicting existing product designs and packages,including within the cosmetics industry, enhanced product dispensing anddosaging technology is needed. Fluid dispensing structures, devices, andtechniques are needed that can dispense fluid in an even, smooth andpredictable manner, without causing significant dripping or substantialclogging of the dispensing orifice of a fluid container.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

The utility of the embodiments of the invention will be readilyappreciated and understood from consideration of the followingdescription of the embodiments of the invention when viewed inconnection with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

FIGS. 1 through 4 illustrate various aspects of an example of anapparatus structured for dispensing fluid in accordance with variousembodiments of the invention;

FIGS. 5 through 8 illustrate various aspects of an example of anapparatus structured for dispensing fluid in accordance with variousembodiments of the invention;

FIGS. 9 through 12 illustrate various aspects of an example of anapparatus structured for dispensing fluid in accordance with variousembodiments of the invention;

FIGS. 13 and 14 illustrate an example of a method for manufacturing andassembling a combined plug and retainer assembly, in accordance withvarious embodiments of the invention;

FIGS. 15 and 16 illustrate an example of an apparatus structured fordispensing fluid in accordance with various embodiments of theinvention;

FIG. 17 illustrates an example of the fingers of a plug in a closedstate;

FIG. 18 illustrates an example of the fingers of a plug in an openstate;

FIGS. 19 through 20B illustrate alternative views of an example of aplug structured in accordance with various embodiments of the invention;

FIGS. 21A through 22B illustrate alternative views of an example of aplug structured in accordance with various embodiments of the invention;

FIGS. 23 and 24 illustrate an example of an apparatus structured fordispensing fluid in accordance with embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 25 illustrates an example of the fingers of a plug in a closedstate;

FIG. 26 illustrates an example of the fingers of a plug in an openstate;

FIGS. 27A through 28B illustrate alternative views of an example of aplug structured in accordance with various embodiments of the invention;

FIGS. 29 and 30 illustrate an example of an apparatus structured fordispensing fluid in accordance with various embodiments of theinvention;

FIGS. 31 through 33B illustrate various alternative views of an exampleof a plug and filter screen assembly structured in accordance withvarious embodiments of the invention;

FIGS. 34 and 35 illustrate an example of an apparatus structured fordispensing fluid in accordance with various embodiments of theinvention;

FIG. 36 illustrates an example of a plug positioned for operation withina nozzle;

FIG. 37 illustrates the effect of applying a threshold fluid pressure tothe interior of the plug of FIG. 36;

FIGS. 38A through 38C illustrate alternative views of a plug asstructured in accordance with various embodiments of the invention;

FIGS. 39 and 40 illustrate an example of an apparatus structured fordispensing fluid in accordance with various embodiments of theinvention;

FIGS. 41A through 41D illustrate alternative views of an example of aplug structured in accordance with various embodiments of the invention;

FIGS. 42 and 43 illustrate an example of an apparatus including a plugmodified to include a tortured path;

FIGS. 44A through 44D illustrate alternative views of an example of aplug including a tortured path structured in accordance with variousembodiments of the invention;

FIGS. 45 through 48 include alternative examples of plugs includingdifferent configurations for tortured paths;

FIGS. 49 and 50 illustrate an example of a covering apparatus structuredfor use in connection with a fluid dispensing apparatus;

FIGS. 51A through 51C illustrate various alternative views of an exampleof a covering apparatus structured in accordance with variousembodiments of the invention;

FIGS. 52 through 54 illustrate alternative styles of coveringapparatuses structured in accordance with certain embodiments of theinvention;

FIGS. 55 and 56 illustrate an example of an apparatus structured fordispensing fluid in accordance with various embodiments of theinvention;

FIGS. 57A through 57D illustrate alternative views of an example of aplug structured in accordance with various embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 58 illustrates a plug positioned for operation within a nozzle;

FIG. 59 illustrates the effect of applying a threshold fluid pressure tothe interior of a plug;

FIG. 60 illustrates a condition of a plug in which further pressure isexerted beyond a threshold fluid pressure;

FIGS. 61 and 62 illustrate an example of an apparatus structured fordispensing fluid in accordance with various embodiments of theinvention;

FIGS. 63A through 63C illustrate alternative views of an example of abase of a plug structured in accordance with various embodiments of theinvention;

FIGS. 64A through 64C illustrate alternative views of an example of avalve of a plug structured in accordance with various embodiments of theinvention;

FIG. 65 illustrates a plug positioned for operation within a nozzle;and,

FIG. 66 illustrates the effect of applying a threshold fluid pressure tothe interior of a plug.

DESCRIPTION

In developing the various embodiments of the invention described herein,the inventors have created structures, devices, and techniques thatallow fluid and liquid products, such as cosmetics, to dispense in amore even, smoother, and more predictable manner. The inventorsappreciate that reasonable consumer expectations of predictable fluiddispensing should include substantially no dripping or oozing from thedispensing orifice after a suitable amount of product has beendispensed. Also, in connection with employing different embodiments ofthe invention, a consumer should be able to hold a tube or other type offluid container in an inverted position without causing substantialdripping or oozing from its dispensing orifice. The inventors haverecognized the need for an accurate correlation, and in certain casesindependence, between a threshold pressure applied to a fluid container(such as manual pressure applied by a user, or pressure applied by someother device) and an appropriate amount of fluid dispensed from thecontainer. It has been appreciated that minimizing accumulation of fluidat the dispensing site of the fluid container avoids clogging thedispensing orifice and the attendant clean-up that typically must beperformed by a consumer.

In developing the invention described herein, the inventors havesatisfied a long-felt and long overlooked need in the cosmeticsindustry, among other areas, to enhance inefficient and less thanoptimum fluid dispensing and dosaging technology in existing cosmeticcontainers. Use of certain embodiments of the invention can resistunintended overdosing of fluid, can resist dripping or oozing from acontainer orifice after initial dispensing onto a consumer's finger orpad, and can resist dripping or oozing from the orifice even if thefluid container is shaken or agitated. In certain aspects of theinvention, a tube-type fluid container can be held in an invertedposition without substantial dripping or oozing, even after thecontainer has been shaken by a consumer, for example, to collect productnear the dispensing end of the container. Also, in the absence of athreshold fluid pressure, the container may be structured to not permita bead of product to form at the orifice, even if the container is in aninverted position, for example.

Embodiments of the invention can also provide devices that allowconsumer finger pressure, for example, on a fluid container body todispense product as a substantially constant linear bead. The device maybe structured so that product is dispensed from the orifice in a clean(i.e., non-splattering), substantially regular, and substantiallyunvarying stream. The device may also be structured to resistintermittent or sudden, unexpected flow from orifice, and to resistunwanted pooling of fluid product on the finger or pad of a consumer,for example.

It can be appreciated that consumer product companies are oftenconcerned with excessive dispensing because of liability claims arisingfrom damage to clothing, furniture, or other articles as a result ofexcess product. Consumer product companies are also sensitive toreducing the costs of packaging and dispensing technology whilemaximizing marketing appeal to consumers. In developing the variousembodiments of the invention, the inventors have provided structures,devices, and techniques which are functionally effective and which canbe manufactured economically.

In various embodiments described herein, apparatus, devices, and toolsare provided that can be configured for application to standard fluidcontainers, such as containers for cosmetic products. For example, andby way of illustration only, a standard cosmetic fluid container mayhave a dispensing orifice in the range of 1 mm to 1.5 mm. Accordingly,certain embodiments of the invention may be structured to accommodatesuch standard sizes. However, it can be appreciated that the embodimentsof the invention may be modified or structured to accommodate differentorifice sizes, different fluid container materials, different fluidcontainer shapes, and/or different types of fluids or fluid viscosities.For example, embodiments of the invention may be readily modified orstructured to function with an orifice dimension which is larger orsmaller than a standard size orifice of a cosmetic fluid container.

In developing the invention, the inventors have recognized theadvantages of leveraging existing containers such as tubes made fromplastic or similar materials which typically offer a safe and effectiveway to deliver product. Such tubes protect the product while providing areasonably long shelf life. Also, there are many ways to decorate a tubein order to meet a prestige or premium consumer market. In contrast,there are other types of non-tube containers that require an externalpump or similar mechanical mechanism to dispense watery or less viscousfluids.

The inventors are also aware that how a product is dispensed is animportant consideration in the product packaging business. For example,consumer complaints may arise because product leaked into a purse orspilled onto a blouse, or simply because the fluid container delivered adose that was either too little or too much. In any event, the productmay not dispense correctly from the fluid container, and consequentlythe container can be perceived as non-functional.

Also, by taking into account the demand for lower component costs, theinventors were motivated to improve on existing fluid deliverystructures, techniques, and systems. It can be seen that use of certainembodiments of the invention can create opportunities for more productsto be considered for the plastic tube, for example, versus other typesof containers that require external, mechanical pumps, for example. Theinventors recognized the importance of identifying and designingmultiple options and materials, because there are many products orfluids which require different dispensing strategies. For example, themanufacture of the plastic tube has been historically limited in massproduction to a 1 mm orifice. But the inventors have recognized that,for many applications, such an orifice size is not sufficiently small toeffectively control the product flow or dispensing behavior from atube-style container of certain types of fluids. This was part of theincentive for the inventors to create structures within the nozzle head,for example, to control fluid flow prior to the fluid reaching thedispensing orifice.

In developing certain embodiments of the invention, the inventors haveaddressed numerous issues related to providing sufficient air flow intoand out of the orifice of a fluid container or fluid dispensingapparatus. For example, certain structures described herein may functionas static check valves which allow sufficient air to flow through adispensing orifice into a fluid container, while adequately retainingthe fluid contents within the container until product is desired to bedispensed. Also, in the example of a standard tube-style cosmeticcontainer, aspects of the invention can be used to enhance dispensingprecision by improving the feedback relationship between pressureapplied to the container (e.g., such as by manual pressure applied by aconsumer) and the pressure experienced by the container in the act ofdispensing a cosmetic product.

In various embodiments, the structures, tools, and techniques describedherein can be configured to be completely internal or substantiallycompletely internal with respect to a fluid container. This permits thestructure and aesthetics (e.g., color, shape, size, and othercharacteristics) of the container to remain unaltered in the eyes ofconsumers examining the container from an external point of view. Inaddition, aspects of the present invention can be readily retrofitted topre-existing, standard styles of fluid containers, such as tube-typecosmetic containers, for example.

As applied herein, the term “cosmetic” may include make-up, oils,creams, and a variety of other compositions of matter capable of flowingfrom a fluid dispenser or a fluid container, either naturally (e.g., byforce of gravity) or by application of a threshold fluid pressure.

FIGS. 1 through 4 illustrate an example of an apparatus 101 structuredfor dispensing fluid. As shown, the apparatus 101 comprises a fluidrepository 102 in fluid communication with a nozzle 104. The nozzle 104may include one or more dispensing orifices 106 formed therein forcommunicating fluid from the interior of the fluid repository 102 to anexternal location. In various embodiments, and as shown moreparticularly in FIG. 1, one or more retaining ridges 108 (such asretaining ridges 108A-108F) may be positioned or formed on an interiorsurface of the nozzle 104.

A plug 110 may be positioned and/or supported on at least a portion ofone or more of the retaining ridges 108 of the nozzle 104. In variousembodiments, at least a portion of the plug 110 comprises a pathway forcommunicating fluid from the fluid repository 102 to the dispensingorifice 106 upon application of a threshold fluid pressure. Thethreshold fluid pressure may be provided by manual pressure applied tothe fluid repository 102, for example, or may be provided by anothertype of internal or external force.

As applied to various embodiments described throughout the presentdescription, a threshold fluid pressure may be defined as the amount ofpressure sufficient to communicate at least a portion of fluid from afluid repository, through a nozzle, and then through a dispensingorifice. In other embodiments, the threshold fluid pressure is thepressure sufficient to communicate a cosmetic-related compound,substance, or fluid from the fluid repository, through the nozzle, andthen through the dispensing orifice. In various embodiments describedherein, an apparatus may be structured to communicate fluid at athreshold fluid pressure that does not exceed a pressure applied to thefluid repository. In certain embodiments, an apparatus may be structuredto communicate fluid at a threshold fluid pressure independent of apressure applied to the fluid repository. In other words, certainembodiments of the invention provide a check valve type feature thatdoes not permit excessive applied pressure to significantly impact thedispensing or dosaging performance of a fluid dispensing apparatus.

It can be seen that one or more of the retaining ridges 108 may bestructured for supporting an outflow portion of the plug 110 at apredetermined gap distance 112 from the dispensing orifice 106. Invarious embodiments, the predetermined gap distance 112 may be selectedfor optimum performance in response to multiple variables such as fluidviscosity, size of the dispensing orifice 106, and/or type of fluidbeing dispensed, among many other factors. It can be appreciated thatthe gap distance 112 may be zero or substantially zero in certainembodiments, or may otherwise be a distance selected for optimizingdesired performance characteristics based on fluid viscosity, forexample, or other performance criteria. In various embodiments, the plug110 may comprise a foam material such as an open-cell foam material, forexample.

As shown, FIG. 1 includes a partially disassembled view of the apparatus101 prior to insertion of the plug 110 into the nozzle 104 of theapparatus 101. FIG. 2 illustrates the plug 110 fully inserted andpositioned within the nozzle 104 of the apparatus 101. FIG. 3 providesan alternative view of the apparatus 101 shown in FIG. 1. Likewise, FIG.4 provides an alternative view of the apparatus 101 shown in FIG. 2.

FIGS. 5 through 8 illustrate an example of an apparatus 201 structuredfor dispensing fluid. As shown, the apparatus 201 comprises a fluidrepository 202 in fluid communication with a nozzle 204. The nozzle 204may include one or more dispensing orifices 206 formed therein forcommunicating fluid from the interior of the fluid repository 202 to anexternal location. In various embodiments, one or more retaining ridges208 may be positioned or formed on an interior surface of the nozzle204.

A plug 210 may be positioned and/or supported on at least a portion ofone or more of the retaining ridges 208 of the nozzle 204. In variousembodiments, at least a portion of the plug 210 comprises a pathway forcommunicating fluid from the fluid repository 202 to the dispensingorifice 206 upon application of a threshold fluid pressure. Thethreshold fluid pressure may be provided by manual pressure applied tothe fluid repository 202, for example, or may be provided by anothertype of internal or external force. As illustrated, the retaining ridge208 may extend around the entire circumference of the interior of thenozzle 204 to provide support to the plug 210. In certain embodiments,the retaining ridge 208 may comprise one or more segments that extend atleast partially around the circumference of the interior of the nozzle204 to provide support and/or proper positioning to the plug 210 withinthe nozzle 204.

It can be seen that the retaining ridge 208 may be structured forsupporting an outflow portion of the plug 210 at a predetermined gapdistance 212 from the dispensing orifice 206. In various embodiments,the predetermined gap distance 212 may be selected for optimumperformance in response to multiple variables such as fluid viscosity,size of the dispensing orifice 206, and/or type of fluid beingdispensed, among many other factors. It can be appreciated that the gapdistance 212 may be zero or substantially zero in certain embodiments,or may otherwise be a distance selected for optimizing desiredperformance characteristics based on fluid viscosity, for example, orother performance criteria. In various embodiments, the plug 210 maycomprise a foam material such as an open-cell foam material, forexample.

As shown, FIG. 5 includes a partially disassembled view of the apparatus201 prior to insertion of the plug 210 into the nozzle 204 of theapparatus 201. FIG. 6 illustrates the plug 210 fully inserted andpositioned within the nozzle 204 of the apparatus 201. FIG. 7 providesan alternative view of the apparatus 201 shown in FIG. 5. Likewise, FIG.8 provides an alternative view of the apparatus 201 shown in FIG. 6.

FIGS. 9 through 12 illustrate an example of an apparatus 301 structuredfor dispensing fluid. As shown, the apparatus 301 comprises a fluidrepository 302 in fluid communication with a nozzle 304. The nozzle 304may include one or more dispensing orifices 306 formed therein forcommunicating fluid from the interior of the fluid repository 302 to anexternal location. In various embodiments, one or more retaining ridges308 may be positioned or formed on an interior surface of the nozzle304.

A plug 310 may be positioned and/or supported within a retainer 312,which in turn may be supported on at least a portion of the retainingridge 308 of the nozzle 304. In various embodiments, at least a portionof the plug 310 comprises a pathway for communicating fluid from thefluid repository 302 to the dispensing orifice 306 upon application of athreshold fluid pressure. The threshold fluid pressure may be providedby applying manual pressure on the fluid repository 302, for example, ormay be provided by another type of internal or external force. Asillustrated, the retaining ridge 308 may extend around the entirecircumference of the interior of the nozzle 304 to provide supportand/or proper placement to the combination of the plug 310 and theretainer 312. In certain embodiments, the retaining ridge 308 maycomprise one or more segments that extend at least partially around thecircumference of the interior of the nozzle 304 to provide support tothe plug 310. The retaining ridge 308 may be structured to receive acorrespondingly mating portion or segment of the retainer 312 thereonwhen positioned for operation within the nozzle 304.

It can be seen that the retaining ridge 308 may be structured forsupporting the retainer 312 including an outflow portion of the plug 310at a predetermined gap distance 314 from the dispensing orifice 306. Invarious embodiments, the predetermined gap distance 314 may be selectedfor optimum performance in response to multiple variables such as fluidviscosity, size of the dispensing orifice 306, type of fluid beingdispensed, among many other factors. It can be appreciated that the gapdistance 314 may be zero or substantially zero in certain embodiments,or may otherwise be a distance selected for optimizing desiredperformance characteristics based on fluid viscosity, for example, orother performance criteria. In various embodiments, the plug 310 maycomprise a foam material such as an open-cell foam material, forexample. It can be seen that the plug 310 may be positioned within atleast a portion of the interior of the retainer 312, wherein at least aportion of the plug 310 can be shaped to conform to an interior shape ofthe retainer 312.

As shown, FIG. 9 includes a partially disassembled view of the apparatus301 prior to combination of the plug 310 with the retainer 312 and theninsertion of the retainer 312 into the nozzle 304 for support by theretaining ridge 308 of the apparatus 301. FIG. 10 illustrates thecombined retainer 312 and plug 310 assembly inserted and positionedwithin the nozzle 304 of the apparatus 301. FIG. 11 provides analternative view of the apparatus 301 shown in FIG. 9. Likewise, FIG. 12provides an alternative view of the apparatus 301 shown in FIG. 10.

FIGS. 13 and 14 illustrate a method for manufacturing and assembling acombined plug 310 and retainer 312 assembly, in accordance with variousembodiments of the invention. FIG. 13 illustrates a retainer 312positioned over a block of foam material 322. The block of foam material322 may be positioned on a machine or work bench, for example, or aspart of a production line in a manufacturing facility. As shown, a topportion 324 of the retainer 312 cuts into the block of foam material 322to cut and force an amount of the foam material into a shape conformingto the interior space of the retainer 312. The act of cutting into thefoam material 322 may be performed by a machine, for example, or othermechanism that holds the retainer 312 in place over the foam material322, and then presses the retainer 312 with sufficient force topenetrate and cut the foam material 322. As illustrated in FIG. 14,after the cutting and forming process is complete, the retainer 312 canbe withdrawn from the block of material 322. The plug 310 is now formedand contained within the interior of the retainer 312 to provide thecombined retainer 312 and plug 310 assembly. It can be seen that thiscombined method of manufacturing and assembling the combined plug 310can provide economic advantages in the form of reduced tooling costs andlabor costs, for example.

FIGS. 15 and 16 illustrate an example of an apparatus 401 structured fordispensing fluid. As shown, the apparatus 401 comprises a fluidrepository 402 in fluid communication with a nozzle 404. The nozzle 404may include one or more dispensing orifices 406 formed therein forcommunicating fluid from the interior of the fluid repository 402 to anexternal location. In various embodiments, one or more retaining ridges408 may be positioned or formed on an interior surface of the nozzle 404for supporting or positioning various structures within the nozzle 404.

In various embodiments, a plug 410 may be positioned and/or supported onat least a portion of the retaining ridge 408 of the nozzle 404. Inoperation, the plug 410 may be positioned within at least a portion ofthe interior of the nozzle 404. The plug may include a base 412 and atip 414 comprising a plurality of fingers 416 (e.g., fingers 416A-416D)extending from the base 412. In certain embodiments, the fingers 416 maybe structured to be resiliently biased in a closed state (as shown inFIG. 17, for example) in the absence of a threshold fluid pressureapplied within the interior of the plug 410. In addition, the pluralityof fingers 416 may be structured to extend outwardly from the interiorof the plug 410 in an open state to create a pathway for communicatingfluid from the fluid repository 402 to the dispensing orifice 406 uponapplication of a threshold fluid pressure within the interior of theplug 410 (see FIG. 18, for example). At least one of the fingers 416 maybe structured to flex outwardly from a longitudinal axis of the plug 410upon application of a threshold fluid pressure within the interior ofthe plug 410.

In certain embodiments, one or more of the plurality of fingers 416 maycomprise one or more types of fiber bristles, such as the types of fiberthat can be used in a paint brush, for example. In certain embodiments,the number of the plurality of fingers 416 may be selected to allow theplug 410 to retain fluid of a certain viscosity in the absence ofexceeding a threshold fluid pressure within the interior of the plug410. Also, the length or other dimension of one or more of the fingers416 may be selected to allow the plug 410 to retain fluid of a certainviscosity in the absence of exceeding a threshold fluid pressure withinthe interior of the plug 410.

In various embodiments, at least a portion of the plug 410 comprises apathway for communicating fluid from the fluid repository 402 to thedispensing orifice 406 upon application of a threshold fluid pressure.The threshold fluid pressure may be provided by manual pressure appliedto the fluid repository 402, for example, or may be provided by anothertype of internal or external force. As illustrated, the retaining ridge408 may extend around the entire circumference of the interior of thenozzle 404 to provide support to the plug 410. In certain embodiments,the retaining ridge 408 may comprise one or more segments that extend atleast partially around the circumference of the interior of the nozzle404 to provide support and/or proper positioning to the plug 410. Theretaining ridge 408 may be structured to receive a correspondinglymating portion of the base 412 of the plug 410 when positioned foroperation within the nozzle 404. The plug 410 may be positioned in placewithin the nozzle 404 by use of a friction fit, a suitable adhesive, oranother device or method known to those skilled in the art.

It can be seen that the retaining ridge 408 may be structured forsupporting an outflow portion of the plug 410 at a predetermined gapdistance 418 from the dispensing orifice 406. In various embodiments,the predetermined gap distance 418 may be selected for optimumperformance in response to multiple variables such as fluid viscosity,size of the dispensing orifice 406, and/or type of fluid beingdispensed, among many other factors. It can be appreciated that the gapdistance 418 may be zero or substantially zero in certain embodiments,or may otherwise be a distance selected for optimizing desiredperformance characteristics based on fluid viscosity, for example, orother performance criteria.

FIGS. 19 through 20B illustrate various alternative views of an exampleof the plug 410 as structured in accordance with various embodiments ofthe invention. FIG. 19 illustrates a partially cut away side view of theplug 410 in a closed state. FIG. 20A illustrates a front view of theplug 410 in a closed state. FIG. 20B shows a top view of the plug 410 ofFIG. 20A.

FIGS. 21A and 21B depict an alternative embodiment of a plug 422 in aclosed state. As shown, each of the plurality of fingers 424 (such asfingers 424A-424C) is structured to form an opening 426 in the closedstate of the plug 422. It can be appreciated that the fingers 424 can bestructured (e.g., thickness, length, material type, or othercharacteristic) to yield certain dimensions of the opening 426 (e.g.,radius, circumference, etc.) that are suitable for fluid of a giventype, viscosity, flow rate, threshold fluid pressure, and/or othercriteria. FIG. 21B illustrates a top view of the plug 422 shown in FIG.21A. FIGS. 22A and 22B include alternative views of the plug 422 in aclosed state.

FIGS. 23 and 24 illustrate an example of an apparatus 501 structured fordispensing fluid. As shown, the apparatus 501 comprises a fluidrepository 502 in fluid communication with a nozzle 504. The nozzle 504may include one or more dispensing orifices 506 formed therein forcommunicating fluid from the interior of the fluid repository 502 to anexternal location. In various embodiments, one or more retaining ridges508 may be positioned or formed on an interior surface of the nozzle 504for supporting or positioning various structures within the nozzle 504.

In various embodiments, a plug 510 may be positioned and/or supported onat least a portion of the retaining ridge 508 of the nozzle 504. Inoperation, the plug 510 may be positioned within at least a portion ofthe interior of the nozzle 504. The plug may include a base 512 and atip 514 comprising a plurality of fingers 516 (e.g., fingers 516A-516C)extending from the base 512. In certain embodiments, the fingers 516 maybe structured to be resiliently biased in a closed state (as shown inFIG. 25, for example) in the absence of a threshold fluid pressureapplied within the interior of the plug 510. In addition, the pluralityof fingers 516 may be structured to extend outwardly from the interiorof the plug 510 in an open state to create a pathway for communicatingfluid from the fluid repository 502 to the dispensing orifice 506 uponapplication of a threshold fluid pressure within the interior of theplug 510 (see FIG. 26, for example). At least one of the fingers 516 maybe structured to flex outwardly from a longitudinal axis of the plug 510upon application of a threshold fluid pressure within the interior ofthe plug 510.

In certain embodiments, one or more of the plurality of fingers 516 maycomprise a foam material. For example, the foam material may include aclosed-cell or micro fiber material, among other types of foammaterials.

In certain embodiments, the number of the plurality of fingers 516 maybe selected to allow the plug 510 to retain fluid of a certain viscosityin the absence of exceeding a threshold fluid pressure within theinterior of the plug 510. Also, the length or other dimension of one ormore of the fingers 516 may be selected to allow the plug 510 to retainfluid of a certain viscosity in the absence of exceeding a thresholdfluid pressure within the interior of the plug 510.

In various embodiments, at least a portion of the plug 510 comprises apathway for communicating fluid from the fluid repository 502 to thedispensing orifice 506 upon application of a threshold fluid pressure.The threshold fluid pressure may be provided by manual pressure appliedto the fluid repository 502, for example, or may be provided by anothertype of internal or external force. As illustrated, the retaining ridge508 may extend around the entire circumference of the interior of thenozzle 504 to provide support to the plug 510. In certain embodiments,the retaining ridge 508 may comprise one or more segments that extend atleast partially around the circumference of the interior of the nozzle504 to provide support and/or proper placement to the plug 510. Theretaining ridge 508 may be structured to receive a correspondinglymating portion of the base 512 of the plug 510 when positioned foroperation within the nozzle 504. The plug 510 may be positioned in placewithin the nozzle 504 by use of a friction fit, a suitable adhesive, oranother device or method known to those skilled in the art.

It can be seen that the retaining ridge 508 may be structured forsupporting an outflow portion of the plug 510 at a predetermined gapdistance 518 from the dispensing orifice 506. In various embodiments,the predetermined gap distance 518 may be selected for optimumperformance in response to multiple variables such as fluid viscosity,size of the dispensing orifice 506, and/or type of fluid beingdispensed, among many other factors. It can be appreciated that the gapdistance 518 may be zero or substantially zero in certain embodiments,or may otherwise be a distance selected for optimizing desiredperformance characteristics based on fluid viscosity, for example, orother performance criteria.

FIGS. 27A through 28B illustrate various alternative views of an exampleof the plug 510 as structured in accordance with various embodiments ofthe invention. FIG. 27A includes a front view of the plug 510 in aclosed state. FIG. 27B illustrates a top view of the plug 510 of FIG.27A, and FIG. 27C illustrates a bottom view of the plug 510 of FIG. 27A.FIG. 27D depicts a partially cut away sectional view of the plug 510 ofFIG. 27A. FIGS. 28A and 28B provide additional three-dimensional viewsof the plug 510.

FIGS. 29 and 30 illustrate an example of an apparatus 601 structured fordispensing fluid. As shown, the apparatus 601 comprises a fluidrepository 602 in fluid communication with a nozzle 604. The nozzle 604may include one or more dispensing orifices 606 formed therein forcommunicating fluid from the interior of the fluid repository 602 to anexternal location. In various embodiments, one or more retaining ridges608 may be positioned or formed on an interior surface of the nozzle 604for supporting or positioning various structures within the nozzle 604.In various embodiments, a plug 610 may be positioned and/or supported onat least a portion of the retaining ridge 608 of the nozzle 604. Inoperation, the plug 610 may be positioned within at least a portion ofthe interior of the nozzle 604.

The plug 610 may include an inflow region 612 and an outflow region 614.A filter screen 616 may be positioned between the outflow region 614 ofthe plug 610 and the dispensing orifice 606. The filter screen 616 maybe structured to create a pathway for communicating fluid from the fluidrepository 602 to the dispensing orifice 606 upon application of athreshold fluid pressure.

In various embodiments, the filter screen 616 may be affixed to at leasta portion of the outflow region 614 of the plug 610, such as by heatsealing, adhesive, or another method or device known to those skilled inthe art. In one embodiment, the filter screen 616 may be positioned tofloat within the space between the outflow region 614 of the plug 610and the dispensing orifice 606. In another embodiment, the filter screen616 may be wedged into place within a portion of an interior space ofthe plug 610. In the example illustrated, the filter screen 616 mayinclude a plurality of cross-hatched openings formed therein. In certainembodiments, the cross-sectional area of one or more of the openings maybe selected to sufficiently communicate therethrough a fluid having apredetermined viscosity.

In various embodiments, at least a portion of the plug 610 comprises apathway for communicating fluid from the fluid repository 602 to thedispensing orifice 606 upon application of a threshold fluid pressure.The threshold fluid pressure may be provided by manual pressure appliedto the fluid repository 602, for example, or may be provided by anothertype of internal or external force. As illustrated, the retaining ridge608 may extend around the entire circumference of the interior of thenozzle 604 to provide support and/or proper placement to the plug 610.In certain embodiments, the retaining ridge 608 may comprise one or moresegments that extend at least partially around the circumference of theinterior of the nozzle 604 to provide support to the plug 610. Theretaining ridge 608 may be structured to receive a correspondinglymating portion or segment of the plug 610 when positioned for operationwithin the nozzle 604. The plug 610 may be positioned in place withinthe nozzle 604 by use of a friction fit, a suitable adhesive, or anotherdevice or method known to those skilled in the art.

It can be seen that the retaining ridge 608 may be structured forsupporting the outflow region 614 of the plug 610 at a predetermined gapdistance 618 from the dispensing orifice 606. In various embodiments,the predetermined gap distance 618 may be selected for optimumperformance in response to multiple variables such as fluid viscosity,size of the dispensing orifice 606, type of fluid being dispensed, amongmany other factors. It can be appreciated that the gap distance 618 maybe zero or substantially zero in certain embodiments, or may otherwisebe a distance selected for optimizing desired performancecharacteristics based on fluid viscosity, for example, or otherperformance criteria.

FIGS. 31 through 33B illustrate various alternative views of an exampleof the plug 610 and the filter screen 616 as structured in accordancewith various embodiments of the invention. FIG. 31 includes an explodedview of the plug 610 and filter screen 616 assembly, and FIG. 32includes an assembled view of the plug 610 with the filter screen 616attached to the plug 610. FIG. 33A includes a side plan view of the plug610 and filter screen 616 arrangement, and FIG. 33B includes a top viewof the plug 610 and filter screen 616 arrangement.

FIGS. 34 and 35 illustrate an example of an apparatus 701 structured fordispensing fluid. As shown, the apparatus 701 comprises a fluidrepository 702 in fluid communication with a nozzle 704. The nozzle 704may include one or more dispensing orifices 706 formed therein forcommunicating fluid from the interior of the fluid repository 702 to anexternal location. In various embodiments, one or more retaining ridges708 may be positioned or formed on an interior surface of the nozzle 704for supporting or positioning various structures within the nozzle 704.In various embodiments, a plug 710 may be positioned and/or supported onat least a portion of the retaining ridge 708 of the nozzle 704. Inoperation, the plug 710 may be positioned within at least a portion ofthe interior of the nozzle 704.

In various embodiments, the plug 710 may include an inflow region 712,an outflow region 714, and a constriction region 716 positioned betweenthe inflow region 712 and the outflow region 714. It can be seen thatthe plug 710 establishes a two-way pathway for fluid communicationbetween the inflow region 712 and the outflow region 714. In certainembodiments, at least a portion of the outflow region 714 of the plug710 may be positioned for direct contact and fluid communication withthe dispensing orifice 706. It can be appreciated that thecross-sectional area and/or volumetric space defined by all or a portionof the constriction region 716 can be configured to communicatetherethrough a fluid having a predetermined viscosity and/or to providea desired flow rate through the apparatus 701. In one embodiment, anexample of the plug 710 includes a tube-shaped portion having a crimpedsegment formed at a location between the inflow region 712 and theoutflow region 714 for establishing the constriction region 716. Atleast a portion of the plug 710 may comprise an elastomeric material oranother type of material for forming the constriction region 716therein. For example, the constriction region 716 may be formed by heatsealing or crimping the plug 710 between the inflow and outflow regions712, 714 to form the constriction region 716.

In various embodiments, at least a portion of the plug 710 comprises apathway for communicating fluid from the fluid repository 702 to thedispensing orifice 706 upon application of a threshold fluid pressure.The threshold fluid pressure may be provided by manual pressure appliedto the fluid repository 702, for example, or may be provided by anothertype of internal or external force. As illustrated, the retaining ridge708 may extend around the entire circumference of the interior of thenozzle 704 to provide support and/or proper placement of the plug 710.In certain embodiments, the retaining ridge 708 may comprise one or moresegments that extend at least partially around the circumference of theinterior of the nozzle 704 to provide support to the plug 710. Theretaining ridge 708 may be structured to receive a correspondinglymating portion or segment of the plug 710 when positioned for operationwithin the nozzle 704. The plug 710 may be positioned in place withinthe nozzle 704 by use of a friction fit, a suitable adhesive, or anotherdevice or method known to those skilled in the art.

It can be seen that the retaining ridge 708 may be structured forsupporting the outflow region 714 of the plug 710 at a predetermined gapdistance 718 from the dispensing orifice 706. In various embodiments,the predetermined gap distance 718 may be selected for optimumperformance in response to multiple variables such as fluid viscosity,size of the dispensing orifice 706, and/or type of fluid beingdispensed, among many other factors. It can be appreciated that the gapdistance 718 may be zero or substantially zero in certain embodiments,or may otherwise be a distance selected for optimizing desiredperformance characteristics based on fluid viscosity, for example, orother performance criteria.

FIG. 36 illustrates the plug 710 positioned for operation within thenozzle 704 of the apparatus in a pre-pressurized state or condition.FIG. 37 illustrates the effect of applying a threshold fluid pressure tothe interior of the plug 710. As shown, the constriction region 716 ofthe plug 710 expands outwardly from the interior of the plug 710 toallow fluid to flow therethrough from the fluid reservoir 702 to thedispensing orifice 706 of the apparatus 701.

FIGS. 38A through 38C illustrate various alternative views of an exampleof the plug 710 as structured in accordance with various embodiments ofthe invention. FIG. 38A includes a front view of the plug 710. FIG. 38Bincludes a side view of the plug 710 shown in FIG. 38A. FIG. 38C depictsa top view of the plug 710 as shown in FIG. 38A.

FIGS. 39 and 40 illustrate an example of an apparatus 801 structured fordispensing fluid. As shown, the apparatus 801 comprises a fluidrepository 802 in fluid communication with a nozzle 804. The nozzle 804may include one or more dispensing orifices 806 formed therein forcommunicating fluid from the interior of the fluid repository 802 to anexternal location. In various embodiments, one or more retaining ridges808 may be positioned or formed on an interior surface of the nozzle 804for supporting or positioning various structures within the nozzle 804.In various embodiments, a plug 810 may be positioned and/or supported onat least a portion of the retaining ridge 808 of the nozzle 804. Inoperation, the plug 810 may be positioned within at least a portion ofthe interior of the nozzle 804.

In various embodiments, the plug 810 may include a tip 812 and a base814 having one or more longitudinal openings 816 (such as openings 816A,816B) formed therein. Each of the longitudinal openings 816 may bestructured to create a pathway for communicating fluid from the fluidrepository 802 to the dispensing orifice 806 upon application of athreshold fluid pressure within the apparatus 801. It can be appreciatedthat the cross-sectional area and/or volumetric space defined by all ora portion of the openings 816 can be configured to communicatetherethrough a fluid having a predetermined viscosity and/or to providea desired flow rate through the apparatus 801.

In various embodiments, at least a portion of the plug 810 comprises apathway for communicating fluid from the fluid repository 802 to thedispensing orifice 806 upon application of a threshold fluid pressure.The threshold fluid pressure may be provided by manual pressure appliedto the fluid repository 802, for example, or may be provided by anothertype of internal or external force. As illustrated, the retaining ridge808 may extend around the entire circumference of the interior of thenozzle 804 to provide support and/or proper placement of the plug 810.In certain embodiments, the retaining ridge 808 may comprise one or moresegments that extend at least partially around the circumference of theinterior of the nozzle 804 to provide support to the plug 810. Theretaining ridge 808 may be structured to receive a correspondinglymating portion or segment of the base 814 of the plug 810 whenpositioned for operation within the nozzle 804. The plug 810 may bepositioned in place within the nozzle 804 by use of a friction fit, asuitable adhesive, or another device or method known to those skilled inthe art.

It can be seen that the retaining ridge 808 may be structured forsupporting an outflow region of the plug 810 at a predetermined gapdistance 818 from the dispensing orifice 806. In various embodiments,the predetermined gap distance 818 may be selected for optimumperformance in response to multiple variables such as fluid viscosity,size of the dispensing orifice 806, and/or type of fluid beingdispensed, among many other factors. It can be appreciated that the gapdistance 818 may be zero or substantially zero in certain embodiments,or may otherwise be a distance selected for optimizing desiredperformance characteristics based on fluid viscosity, for example, orother performance criteria.

FIGS. 41A through 41D illustrate various alternative views of an exampleof the plug 810 as structured in accordance with various embodiments ofthe invention. FIG. 41A includes a front view of the plug 810, and FIG.41B includes a side view of the plug 810 shown in FIG. 41A. FIG. 41Cillustrates a top view of the plug 810 shown in FIG. 41A, and FIG. 41Dshows a bottom view of the plug 810 included in FIG. 41A.

In alternative embodiments, FIGS. 42 and 43 illustrate an example of theapparatus 801 including a plug 822 modified to include a tortured path824 formed thereon. In the example shown, the tortured path 824comprises a plurality of segments 826 (such as segments 826A-826C)defining gaps between the segments 826 to provide a tortured andpotentially circuitous path for fluid to travel from the fluidrepository 802 to the dispensing orifice 806 upon application ofthreshold fluid pressure. As shown, the tortured path 824 may comprise aplurality of segments 826 positioned on the plug 822 generallytransversely with respect to a longitudinal axis of the plug 822. Inaddition, one or more of the plurality of segments 826 may have athickness which is a predetermined percentage of the overall height ofthe plug 822, or which is a predetermined percentage of the distancefrom a portion of the base 828 of the plug 822 to the endmost portion ofthe tip 830 of the plug 822, or another selected dimension.

FIGS. 44A through 44D illustrate various alternative views of an exampleof the plug 822 including the tortured path 824 as structured inaccordance with various embodiments of the invention. FIG. 44A includesa front view of the plug 822, and FIG. 44B includes a side view of theplug 822 shown in FIG. 44A. FIG. 44C illustrates a top view of the plug822 shown in FIG. 44A, and FIG. 44D shows a bottom view of the plug 822included in FIG. 44A.

In addition, FIGS. 45 through 48 include alternative examples of plugs842, 844, 846, 848 including different configurations for tortured pathsthat may be employed in connection with a plug. For example, the plugs842, 844 illustrated in FIGS. 45 and 46 include tortured paths comprisedof a plurality of segments positioned at an angle with respect to alongitudinal axis of the plugs 842, 844. In comparing plug 846 to plug848, it can be seen that the segments of the tortured path for plug 846are generally less thick than the segments of the tortured path for plug848. In this example, plug 848 has an additional row of segments formedon the plug 848 as compared to the plug 846. It can be appreciated thata wide variety of tortured path configurations may be possible withinthe scope of embodiments of the invention described herein. The torturedpath may be configured into response to fluid viscosity, material type,desired flow rate, desired dosage, and/or many other factors.

FIGS. 49 and 50 illustrate an example of a covering apparatus 901structured for use in connection with a fluid dispensing apparatus 902.As shown, the fluid dispensing apparatus 902 comprises a fluidrepository 904 in fluid communication with a nozzle 906. The nozzle 906may include one or more dispensing orifices 908 formed therein forcommunicating fluid from the interior of the fluid repository 904 to anexternal location.

In various embodiments, the covering apparatus 901 may include a housing912 structured for placement on the fluid dispensing apparatus 902. Thehousing 912 may be structured for attaching to and covering at least aportion of the nozzle 906 of the fluid dispensing apparatus 901. Inaddition, the covering apparatus 901 may include one or moresupplemental dispensing orifices 914 formed in the housing 912. Inoperation, at least a portion of the supplemental dispensing orifice 914can be structured to overlap with at least a portion of the dispensingorifice 908 of the fluid dispensing apparatus 902 when the housing 912is positioned on the fluid dispensing apparatus 902.

In various embodiments, the housing 912 of the covering apparatus 901may comprise a flexible material or an elastomeric material, forexample. The housing 912 may also comprise a material having a colorrepresentative of contents of the fluid dispensing apparatus 902 (e.g.,a certain type of cosmetic). A total area of the supplemental dispensingorifices 914 may be configured to be less than the area of thedispensing orifice 908 of the fluid dispensing apparatus 902. A ratio ofan area of the supplemental dispensing orifice 914 to an area of thedispensing orifice 908 of the fluid dispensing apparatus 902 may beselected within a predetermined range subject to material viscosity,fluid material type, desired fluid flow rate, desired dosage to bedispensed, and/or many other factors.

FIGS. 51A through 51C illustrate various alternative views of an exampleof the covering apparatus 901 as structured in accordance with variousembodiments of the invention. FIG. 51A shows a partially cut away sideview of the covering apparatus 901, and FIG. 51B depicts a front view ofthe covering apparatus 901. FIG. 51C includes a top view of the coveringapparatus 901 of FIG. 51B. FIGS. 52 through 54 illustrate variousalternative styles of covering apparatuses 922, 924, 926 that can bestructured in accordance with certain embodiments of the invention. Asshown, each cover apparatus 922, 924, 926 includes a unique number andconfiguration of supplemental dispensing orifices. It can be appreciatedthat the number, size, and configuration of supplemental dispensingorifices can be selected in response to factors such as materialviscosity, fluid material type, desired fluid flow rate, desired dosageto be dispensed, and/or many other factors.

FIGS. 55 and 56 illustrate an example of an apparatus 1001 structuredfor dispensing fluid. As shown, the apparatus 1001 comprises a fluidrepository 1002 in fluid communication with a nozzle 1004. The nozzle1004 may include one or more dispensing orifices 1006 formed therein forcommunicating fluid from the interior of the fluid repository 1002 to anexternal location. In various embodiments, one or more retaining ridges1008 may be positioned or formed on an interior surface of the nozzle1004 for supporting or positioning various structures within the nozzle1004. In various embodiments, a plug 1010 may be positioned and/orsupported on at least a portion of the retaining ridge 1008 of thenozzle 1004. In operation, the plug 1010 may be positioned within atleast a portion of the interior of the nozzle 1004.

In various embodiments, the plug 1010 may include a base portion 1012having at least one fluid flow opening 1014 (such as openings 1014A,1014B) formed therein. Also, the plug 1010 may include a bellows portion1016 structured for expanding to an elongated state upon application ofa threshold fluid pressure. In the elongated state, the plug 1010 cancreate a pathway for communicating fluid from the fluid repository 1002through the fluid flow opening 1014 to the dispensing orifice 1006 uponapplication of the threshold fluid pressure. Also, the bellows portion1016 may be configured for contracting to a compressed state in whichthe bellows portion 1016 contacts an interior surface of the nozzle 1004to create a substantial fluid communication seal between the fluidrepository 1002 and the dispensing orifice 1006. In the compressedstate, it can be seen that substantially no fluid is permitted to flowfrom the fluid repository 1002 to the dispensing orifice 1006.

In various embodiments, at least a portion of the plug 1010 comprises apathway for communicating fluid from the fluid repository 1002 to thedispensing orifice 1006 upon application of a threshold fluid pressure.The threshold fluid pressure may be provided by manual pressure appliedto the fluid repository 1002, for example, or may be provided by anothertype of internal or external force. As illustrated, the retaining ridge1008 may extend around the entire circumference of the interior of thenozzle 1004 to provide support and/or proper placement of the plug 1010.In certain embodiments, the retaining ridge 1008 may comprise one ormore segments that extend at least partially around the circumference ofthe interior of the nozzle 1004 to provide support to the plug 1010. Theretaining ridge 1008 may be structured to receive a correspondinglymating portion or segment of the plug 1010 when positioned for operationwithin the nozzle 1004. The plug 1010 may be positioned in place withinthe nozzle 1004 by use of a friction fit, a suitable adhesive, oranother device or method known to those skilled in the art.

It can be seen that the retaining ridge 1008 may be structured forsupporting the bellows portion 1016 of the plug 1010 at a predeterminedgap distance 1018 from the dispensing orifice 1006 in the elongatedstate of the bellows portion 1016. In various embodiments, thepredetermined gap distance 1018 may be selected for optimum performancein response to multiple variables such as fluid viscosity, size of thedispensing orifice 1006, and/or type of fluid being dispensed, amongmany other factors. It can be appreciated that the gap distance 1018 maybe zero or substantially zero in certain embodiments, or may otherwisebe a distance selected for optimizing desired performancecharacteristics based on fluid viscosity, for example, or otherperformance criteria.

In certain embodiments, a ring 1022 may be positioned between thebellows portion 1016 of the plug 1010 and the dispensing orifice 1006.For example, the ring 1022 may be structured as a crenellated ringconfigured to maintain a predetermined gap distance between the bellowsportion 1016 and the dispensing orifice 1006 in the elongated state ofthe bellows portion 1016.

FIGS. 57A through 57D illustrate various alternative views of an exampleof the plug 1010 as structured in accordance with various embodiments ofthe invention. FIG. 57A shows a front view of the plug 1010. FIG. 57Bshows a partially cut away side view of the plug 1010 shown in FIG. 57A.FIG. 57C shows a top view of the plug 1010 of FIG. 57A, and FIG. 57Ddepicts a bottom view of the plug 1010 included in FIG. 57A.

FIG. 58 illustrates the plug 1010 positioned for operation within thenozzle 1004 of the apparatus 1001 in a pre-pressurized state orcompressed condition. FIG. 59 illustrates the effect of applying athreshold fluid pressure to the interior of the plug 1010, causing thebellows portion of the plug to expand to the elongated state, andthereby creating a path for fluid flow from the fluid repository 1002,through the plug 1010, and toward the dispensing orifice 1006. FIG. 60illustrates a condition of the plug 1010 in which further pressure isexerted beyond the threshold fluid pressure. As shown, the bellowsportion may cover the dispensing orifice 1006 creating a substantialfluidic seal. This can be beneficial in the event that too much pressureis applied to the apparatus 1001, essentially creating a check valvewherein excessive fluid will not be dispensed from the fluid repository1002.

FIGS. 61 and 62 illustrate an example of an apparatus 1101 structuredfor dispensing fluid. As shown, the apparatus 1101 comprises a fluidrepository 1102 in fluid communication with a nozzle 1104. The nozzle1104 may include one or more dispensing orifices 1106 formed therein forcommunicating fluid from the interior of the fluid repository 1102 to anexternal location. In various embodiments, one or more retaining ridges1108 may be positioned or formed on an interior surface of the nozzle1104 for supporting or positioning various structures within the nozzle1104. In various embodiments, a plug 1110 may be positioned and/orsupported on at least a portion of the retaining ridge 1108 of thenozzle 1104. In operation, the plug 1110 may be positioned within atleast a portion of the interior of the nozzle 1104.

In various embodiments, the plug 1110 may include a base 1112 having atleast one fluid flow opening 1114 formed therein. In addition, the plug1110 may include a valve 1116 having at least one fluid flow opening1118 formed therein. In operation, the valve 1116 may be structured forexpanding to an elongated state wherein a tip 1120 of the valve 1116extends into the fluid flow opening 1114 of the base 1112 to create asubstantial fluid communication seal between the fluid repository 1102and the dispensing orifice 1106. It can be seen that the valve 1116 mayfurther include a ring stand 1122 which contacts an interior surface ofthe nozzle 1104 near the dispensing orifice 1106 in the elongated stateof the valve 1116.

Also, the valve 1116 may be structured for contracting to a compressedstate upon application of a threshold fluid pressure wherein the tip1120 of the valve 1116 dissociates from the fluid flow opening 1114 ofthe base 1112 to create a pathway for communicating fluid from the fluidrepository 1002 through the fluid flow opening 1114 of the base 1112,through the fluid flow opening 1118 of the valve 1116, and further tothe dispensing orifice 1106. In various embodiments, the fluid flowopenings 1114, 1118 may be suitably dimensioned to accommodate fluids ofdifferent viscosity, material type, desired fluid flow rate, or desireddosage to be dispensed, among many other factors.

In various embodiments, the valve 1116 may be comprised of anelastomeric material or another type of flexible material capable ofexpanding and contracting as described above. The base 1112 of the plug1110 may be comprised of a material that is comparatively more rigidthan a material comprising the valve 1116 of the plug 1110.

In various embodiments, at least a portion of the plug 1110 comprises apathway for communicating fluid from the fluid repository 1102 to thedispensing orifice 1106 upon application of a threshold fluid pressure.The threshold fluid pressure may be provided by manual pressure appliedto the fluid repository 1102, for example, or may be provided by anothertype of internal or external force. As illustrated, the retaining ridge1108 may extend around the entire circumference of the interior of thenozzle 1104 to provide support and/or proper placement of the plug 1110.In certain embodiments, the retaining ridge 1108 may comprise one ormore segments that extend at least partially around the circumference ofthe interior of the nozzle 1104 to provide support to the plug 1110. Theretaining ridge 1108 may be structured to receive a correspondinglymating portion or segment of the plug 1110 when positioned for operationwithin the nozzle 1104. The plug 1110 may be positioned in place withinthe nozzle 1104 by use of a friction fit, a suitable adhesive, oranother device or method known to those skilled in the art.

FIGS. 63A through 63C illustrate various alternative views of an exampleof the base 1112 of the plug 1110 as structured in accordance withvarious embodiments of the invention. FIG. 63A includes a front view ofthe base 1112. FIG. 63B shows a top view of the base 1112 shown in FIG.63A, and FIG. 63C shows a bottom view of the base 1112 shown in FIG.63A.

FIGS. 64A through 64C illustrate various alternative views of an exampleof the valve 1116 of the plug 1110 as structured in accordance withvarious embodiments of the invention. FIG. 64A includes a front view ofthe valve 1116. FIG. 64B shows a top view of the valve 1116 shown inFIG. 64A, and FIG. 64C shows a bottom view of the valve 1116 shown inFIG. 64A.

FIG. 65 illustrates the plug 1110 positioned for operation within thenozzle 1104 of the apparatus 1101 in a pre-pressurized state orelongated condition. FIG. 66 illustrates the effect of applying athreshold fluid pressure to the interior of the plug 1110, causing thevalve 1116 of the plug 1110 to compress, and also creating a path forfluid flow from the fluid repository 1102, through the plug 1110, andtoward the dispensing orifice 1106.

Various of the structures, apparatuses, and other materials describedherein may be comprised of a suitable material such as polypropylene oran elastomeric material, for example. It can be appreciated thatmaterials that comprise the various strictures can be selected for theirrigidity, flexibility, and/or suitability for use within a consumerproduct.

The examples presented herein are intended to illustrate potential andspecific implementations of the present invention. It can be appreciatedthat the examples are intended primarily for purposes of illustration ofthe invention for those skilled in the art. No particular aspect oraspects of the examples are necessarily intended to limit the scope ofthe present invention.

Any element expressed herein as a means for performing a specifiedfunction is intended to encompass any way of performing that functionincluding, for example, a combination of elements that performs thatfunction. Furthermore the invention, as may be defined by suchmeans-plus-function claims, resides in the fact that the functionalitiesprovided by the various recited means are combined and brought togetherin a manner as defined by the appended claims. Therefore, any means thatcan provide such functionalities may be considered equivalents to themeans shown herein.

It will be appreciated that, for convenience and clarity of disclosure,terms describing relative orientation or spatial positioning such as“proximal,” “distal,” “vertical,” “horizontal,” “up,” “down,” “top,”“front,” “back,” “bottom,” “upward,” or “downward” may be used at timesherein with respect to the drawings and text description in associationwith various embodiments of the invention. However, such terms areprimarily used for illustrative purposes and are not necessarilyintended to be limiting in nature.

It is to be understood that the figures and descriptions of the presentinvention have been simplified to illustrate elements that are relevantfor a clear understanding of the present invention, while eliminating,for purposes of clarity, other elements. Those of ordinary skill in theart will recognize, however, that these and other elements may bedesirable. However, because such elements are well known in the art, andbecause they do not facilitate a better understanding of the presentinvention, a discussion of such elements is not provided herein. Itshould be appreciated that the figures are presented for illustrativepurposes and not as construction drawings. Omitted details andmodifications or alternative embodiments are within the purview ofpersons of ordinary skill in the art. For example, there may bevariations to these diagrams or the operations described herein withoutdeparting from the spirit of the invention.

It can be appreciated that, in certain aspects of the present invention,a single component may be replaced by multiple components, and multiplecomponents may be replaced by a single component, to provide an elementor structure or to perform a given function or functions. Except wheresuch substitution would not be operative to practice certain embodimentsof the present invention, such substitution is considered within thescope of the present invention.

While various embodiments of the invention have been described herein,it should be apparent, however, that various modifications, alterationsand adaptations to those embodiments may occur to persons skilled in theart with the attainment of some or all of the advantages of the presentinvention. The disclosed embodiments are therefore intended to includeall such modifications, alterations and adaptations without departingfrom the scope and spirit of the present invention as claimed herein.

What is claimed is:
 1. An apparatus for dispensing fluid, the apparatuscomprising: a fluid repository in fluid communication with a nozzle,wherein the nozzle includes at least one dispensing orifice formedtherein; at least one retaining ridge positioned on an interior surfaceof the nozzle; and, a plug supported on the retaining ridge of thenozzle, wherein at least a portion of the plug comprises a pathway forcommunicating fluid from the fluid repository to the dispensing orificeupon application of a threshold fluid pressure.
 2. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein the retaining ridge is structured for supporting anoutflow portion of the plug at a predetermined gap distance from thedispensing orifice.
 3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein thepredetermined gap distance is structured in response to a fluidviscosity.
 4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the plug comprises afoam material.
 5. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the foam materialincludes an open-cell foam material.
 6. The apparatus of claim 1,wherein the plug is structured to communicate fluid at a threshold fluidpressure not exceeding a pressure applied to the fluid repository. 7.The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the plug is structured to communicatefluid at a threshold fluid pressure independent of a pressure applied tothe fluid repository.
 8. An apparatus for dispensing fluid, theapparatus comprising: a fluid repository in fluid communication with anozzle, wherein the nozzle includes at least one dispensing orificeformed therein; a plug positioned within the interior of the nozzle,wherein at least a portion of the plug comprises a pathway forcommunicating fluid from the fluid repository to the dispensing orificeupon application of pressure to fluid contained within the fluidrepository; a retainer positioned for supporting the plug within theinterior of the nozzle; and, a retaining ridge positioned along at leasta portion of the nozzle, wherein the retaining ridge is structured toreceive a correspondingly mating portion of the retainer thereon.
 9. Theapparatus of claim 7, wherein the retainer is structured for supportingan outflow region of the plug at a predetermined gap distance from thedispensing orifice.
 10. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein thepredetermined gap distance is structured in response to a fluidviscosity.
 11. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the plug comprises afoam material.
 12. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the foam materialincludes an open-cell foam material.
 13. An apparatus for dispensingfluid, the apparatus comprising: a fluid repository in fluidcommunication with a nozzle, wherein the nozzle includes at least onedispensing orifice formed therein; a retainer positioned within at leasta portion of the interior of the nozzle; and, a plug positioned withinat least a portion of the interior of the retainer, wherein at least aportion of the plug is shaped to conform to an interior shape of theretainer, and wherein at least a portion of the plug comprises a pathwayfor communicating fluid from the fluid repository to the dispensingorifice upon application of a threshold fluid pressure.
 14. Theapparatus of claim 13, wherein the retainer is structured for supportingan outflow portion of the plug at a predetermined gap distance from thedispensing orifice.
 15. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein thepredetermined gap distance is structured in response to a fluidviscosity.
 16. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the plug comprises afoam material.
 17. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein the foam materialincludes an open-cell foam material.